Shantyboat

Literary Titan Review of Shantyboat, December 22, 2023
In Shantyboat: American Dystopia, author Carl Parsons crafts a dystopian narrative, weaving the lives of two homeless men, Dale and Rodney, through a labyrinth of political and moral complexities. This tale, punctuated by their struggle to align their unconventional political views with their quest for a decent life, takes a dramatic turn with the introduction of Delia, a woman ensnared in her own web of secrets. The ensuing narrative is a tapestry of deception, murder, and a multifaceted love story.
Rodney, portrayed with a blend of intelligence and questionable ethics, confronts survival and moral dilemmas. Meanwhile, Delia, shadowed by the mystery of her missing husband and a covert act, stands at a crossroads between love and loyalty. The trio's journey through a world teetering on the edge of revolt highlights the weight of their hasty, morally ambiguous actions.
The novel resonates with contemporary societal issues, including broken homes, the challenges of the marginalized, and systemic flaws in the justice system. One particularly poignant conversation between Dale and Rodney about a crime witnessed by children underscores this, posing questions about the frequency of such injustices going unaddressed due to fear of reprisal. Parsons' protagonists defy the archetype of morally upright characters. Though their actions, steeped in crime, are driven by a pursuit of what they perceive as a greater good, their journey is marked by a series of unexpected events that further reveal their intricate personalities.
Amidst the darker themes, moments of romance, and lighter interludes involving a cat and a child, offer a contrast to the narrative's heavier tones. Shantyboat offers a dynamic pacing, with immersive discussions that delve deeply into its themes, complemented by a swiftly executed conclusion. This narrative rhythm enhances the book's core strength: its profound capacity to provoke thoughtful reflections on contemporary social and political issues. It engages readers who are drawn to narratives that stimulate introspection on societal dilemmas.
Shantyboat: American Dystopia leaves a lasting impression, with its characters' raw exposition of harsh truths and its ability to evoke a physical nod of agreement with its astute observations. Carl Parsons delivers a story that lingers in the mind, prompting contemplation long after the final page is turned.
Rating: 4 Stars

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers’ Favorite, December 3, 2023:
Shantyboat is a dystopian drama by Carl Parsons. In the near future, the United States is no longer a democracy but a one-party totalitarian state called the Federation. With the advent of the Greater Depression, many have become homeless while vagrants now rule the streets. Two strangers, Dale Nutter and Rodney Tanner, suddenly find themselves seeking sanctuary at the Southside Community Shelter after losing their homes and families. With their mutual outlook toward the Federation regime, Dale and Rodney soon become fast friends and begin working on building a shantyboat in secrecy. While working on their boat, the two friends unwittingly commit murder and theft. However, a seemingly chance encounter with a young woman named Delia Hodge brings a new purpose to their lives. Will Dale and Rodney ever be able to escape the Federation's machinations?

Carl Parsons infuses plenty of social commentary into this engrossing dystopian novel that touches upon some real-world political issues. Shantyboat is dark and dramatic, and it aptly showcases the grievances of a section of Americans on the right side of the political aisle. The narrative is somewhat of a slow-burn, but it's compelling nevertheless. The plot plays out like a survival drama set in a futuristic dystopian society where the American economy has irrevocably collapsed, leading to mass poverty and homelessness. The two main characters, Dale and Rodney, are multifaceted and easy to relate to. Their contrasting personalities make for an absorbing dynamic, and it was one of the book's highlights for me. I also enjoyed Dale's relationship with Delia. Overall, this is an engaging drama that I will recommend to readers who love dystopian survival stories.